[ A slow nod happens at his words. It's always a matter of time. She had hoped it was different for this Alan and Jesse. That them meeting earlier would mean they would have more time than she has with the one she knows. Apparently, neither story will allow that to happen. Her gaze drifts to the side slightly.

« I guess neither me nor her really have a place in his stories. »

Jesse raises her eyes once more at his next statement. Her head tilts back and her shoulders square. ]

He's said we have. [ A shake of her head then as her gaze wanders again. ] I'm not sure if it's really been as much as help as he says it is. Otherwise... I don't know. Things would be better. I guess.

[ A brief hesitation happens before she spreads her fingers for his to slip between. It feels as if they've always done this, even though he isn't the one she knows. It just proves that really they are the same person at their core. Her gaze stays on their hand for a long moment. ]

She needs more than a friend. [ Her head tilts back again. ] Not that I'm trying to tell you what to do or who to be to her. Just... it might be better if you ask questions. I'll try to tell you what I can without stepping on her toes.

[ A gentle smile tugs at her face. ] I always figured it just came hand-in-hand with you being a writer. Or, just, a part of who you were even as a kid. I did some research before I met the you I know.

[ The smile turns into something vulnerability. A glance down, then back up. Almost a shy expression in her eyes. ] Make sure you tell her that.